.. by Sartaj Ahmad Khan
Honorable Prime Minister,
I write to you at a moment of great urgency and equally great opportunity. Our beloved nation, forged through resilience and adversity, stands at a pivotal crossroads. While the past has been marked by wars, deep-rooted conflicts, and regional insecurities, the future demands a transformative shift — one that is underpinned by visionary leadership, national reconciliation, and a bold re-imagining of Pakistan’s priorities.
As a front line state in the geopolitics of South Asia, Pakistan has paid a heavy price in the form of prolonged instability. Decades of focus on security paradigms have, regrettably, diverted attention from critical and pressing issues such as unchecked population growth, environmental degradation, water scarcity, human capital development, equitable access to modern education, and long-term economic sustainability. These challenges, if left unaddressed, risk undermining the very foundations of our state.
At this critical juncture, I earnestly call for a new social contract among political stakeholders and state institutions — one that embraces inclusivity, accountability, and national cohesion. Such a framework is essential to move from a reactive to a proactive national posture.
The recent crisis between India and Pakistan, though fraught with tension, displayed a welcome measure of restraint and statesmanship. This moment, though born of adversity, has opened a small but significant window for transformative diplomacy. In that spirit, I respectfully submit the following out-of-the-box proposals to address the challenges before us:
1. Composite Dialogue on Kashmir: There can be no lasting peace in the region without a just and inclusive resolution to the Kashmir dispute. A structured, composite dialogue process under international observation — ideally facilitated through the United Nations — must be revived. This should include sustained engagement with the leadership in both Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Indian-administered Kashmir, ensuring the voice of the Kashmiri people is heard and respected.
2. Indus Waters Treaty and Regional Water Security: With climate change intensifying, trans-boundary water cooperation has become an existential issue. A comprehensive review of the Indus Waters Treaty, with the involvement of neutral international experts, should be pursued to ensure equitable water sharing, improved dispute resolution mechanisms, and ecological preservation.
3. Joint Inquiries into Regional Incidents: Trust cannot be built without truth. I propose the establishment of two independent, high-level inquiries under the aegis of the United Nations into the tragic incidents of the Jaffar Express attack in Balochistan and the Pulwama attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. Only through impartial investigation and transparency can the cycle of mutual accusations and suspicion be broken.
4. Eradication of Terrorism: It is imperative that we jointly and unequivocally reject all forms of terrorism. A regional counter-terrorism mechanism, with contributions from Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, and other neighbors, could institutionalize intelligence sharing, counter-extremism programs, and de-radicalization initiatives.
5. Promotion of Regional Trade and Connectivity: Peaceful trade is a powerful engine for prosperity. Reopening trade corridors and enhancing regional economic integration through mechanisms such as the ECO and SAARC will provide much-needed opportunities for employment, innovation, and shared growth.
6. Civil Society and People-to-People Contact: The soul of any lasting peace lies in human connection. Civil society forums, educational exchanges, cultural cooperation, and visa liberalization for professionals and families should be actively pursued to foster empathy and understanding between our peoples.
7. Revival of Sports Ties: Among the most powerful tools for healing and unity is the realm of sports. Cricket, hockey, and other shared sporting traditions have long connected the peoples of South Asia beyond politics. I propose a formal framework for the revival of bilateral sports ties, beginning with friendly series at neutral venues, followed by reciprocal tours once conditions permit. This effort should be accompanied by the re-establishment of joint sports committees, youth exchange programs, and grassroots collaboration between federations. Sporting diplomacy can bridge divides, nurture goodwill, and remind us of our common humanity.
8. National Economic Vision: Domestically, a shift is needed towards long-term economic planning centered on human development, technological advancement, agricultural modernization, and youth entrepreneurship. Investment in modern skills and a knowledge economy will ensure that Pakistan is prepared for the demands of the 21st century.
Honorable Prime Minister, it is time to look beyond the horizon — to transcend the politics of division and conflict, and to embrace a future rooted in peace, dignity, and shared prosperity. Pakistan’s potential remains vast, and its spirit unbroken. With courageous leadership, we can begin a new chapter not only for our nation, but for the region at large.
I remain, with utmost respect,
Sincerely,
Sartaj Ahmad Khan
Former Coordinator, FPCCI KP